Chia is aiming to become the first Malaysian to win his home event

Englishman Simon Griffiths surged up to fourth place on day two of the Malaysian Open but local favourite Danny Chia topped the leaderboard.

Griffiths shot four birdies in the first five holes on the way to a 66 which put him on eight-under-par.

Chia, who claimed two eagles in his 65, is on 13-under-par - three clear of second placed Sweden's Alexander Noren.

England's Nick Dougherty joined Griffiths in joint fourth place thanks to a second-round 70.

"I think today didn't come quite as easily as yesterday - I didn't hole as many putts," said Dougherty.

"But I think, all in all, to be able to shoot two under on a day like that when not a lot happens is good. It keeps me in contention."

Overnight leader, Noh Seung-yul of Korea, who opened with a 62, struggled to a 73 which left the 17-year-old four back in third place.

But the day belonged to Chia after the 36-year-old, who is hoping to become the first Malaysian to win the event, delighted his army of fans with some stunning drives and wedge shots.

"I played really good and I am very happy," said the Malaysian. "I kept telling myself to be calm out there. My biggest concern is to not get too emotional but I played well on the front nine and told myself to be focused.

A total of 74 players qualified for the weekend rounds after the cut was made at 143.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version